A marine trades challenge with a rugby match on the side. That's the formula at Pah Farm, Kawau Island, on Saturday August 11. Organised by the Boating Industry Training Organisation, the event should inject a little levity into what is in effect a training exercise. Contestants will build a mini-grandstandand bar leaner. Once the entries have been judged, they will become viewing platforms for the Bledisloe Cup match. The after-match function will begin at 4 pm.
Ripple effect
Richard Shores has sold his successful offshore racer Eta Ripples to Grant Smith from Wellington. The 29ft Robson 560hp catamaran took Shores to his second national title this year. The boat was launched in 1996 and has won the class 3 6-litre championship three times (1997/2000/01). Smith and co-driver Wayne Gardner have previously raced a 19ft Cyclone.
e-Baywatch
Television fans of Baywatch have until Monday to lodge bids for the boat that stars in the show. The 10.9m customised Luhrs 360 is being sold by Mike Newman. He is the technical adviser to the programme and has played "Newmie" since the show's inception in 1989. Bids can be lodged at eBay or Retrodaddy
People's choice
Propeller magazine organised a poll at the 2001 New Zealand Boat Show to let the patrons choose the best boat on display. The Rayglass 1950 got the nod on points.
Waterwatch
The Richmond Yacht Club's fully crewed race tomorrow is the only organised activity listed for the Waitemata this weekend.
Today's safety tip from the ARC Maritime Operations Centre is that personal water craft being used in or on the waters of the Auckland region must have a number on each side of the craft. The number must be registered with the council, along with the name and address of the owner.
The free Boaties Booklet is about to be reprinted. Organisations or individuals wanting to have an event listed for 2001-2002 should call Hans Swete on (09) 361 2405 or the ARC Enviroline on 0800 80 60 40
